How to Build a Nice Dog House

A dog house is more than just a necessity -- It's your pet's home, where she will go to retreat from the world. A dog house is your pup's own private getaway, and should be something she can really enjoy. There are many different styles of dog houses available, but building the right one for your individual pet is important. A nice dog house does not have to be expensive or elaborate. It simply needs to be comfortable and suited for your beloved pet.

Things You'll Need

  • Building design
  • Building materials such as wood or wood paneling
  • Hammer
  • Nails
  • Saw
  • Ruler
  • Bedding
  • Metal hinges
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use a ruler to decide what size dog house you need. It should be about a foot taller and wider than your full-grown dog. The space should give your dog enough room to move around inside, yet be small enough for her to curl up and get cozy. Measure the area where you would like to put the dog house to make sure you have enough room. Write down these measurements so you will know the different size boards or paneling you will need.

    • 2

      Decide what type of materials you want to use. Normally, wood is the best choice because it tends to breathe better and is easier to cut into the right size. You can also use plastics and vinyl sidings on a wooden or aluminum frame. Aluminum dog houses can get really hot. However, if you live in a cold climate, you will need some type of insulation. You should insulate your dog's house with the same type and grade insulation that is used in homes for people.

    • 3

      Decide what type of design you would like your dog house to be. You can find examples online at Dog House Designs. Choose the one you like the best and create a blueprint for that style based on the measurements you need. To create a blueprint, choose the design you want and the size you need -- this will tell you the measurements that are required for each element of your build.

    • 4

      After determining the right style, size and deciding the type of materials to use, visit your local hardware store and buy supplies for your dog house. Once you have everything together, it's time to start building. Double check all of your supplies before beginning any build.

    • 5
      Gather your tools before you begin building your dog house.

      Use the saw, ruler and building design to measure and cut wood or other material into the right size. Begin attaching the pieces together according to the design. Start with the base of the dog house, then add the back and sides. Cut out a doorway and attach it to the front of the dog house. The doorway should be about the same size or a little shorter than the height of your dog.

    • 6

      Attach the roof last. It is recommended that you use hinges for this step so you can open up the roof to clean out the dog house. This will help you keep the dog house in good condition for your dog. To attach your hinges, measure from the outside of the back wall of the dog house. Place your roof on top. On the back side, drill in holes for the hinge screws. Screw the hinges in place so that the roof opens upwards like a top coming off of a box. This allows easy access to the dog house.

    • 7

      Add a porch, rails and decorations to make your dog house more colorful and suited to your pet's personality. You can even add shingles to the roof to add insulation and for a more aesthetic appeal. Use home roofing shingles cut to size on your doghouse the same way you would apply them to a house, but on a smaller scale.